Michaelmas 2007

Michaelmas term means one word– SNOW!!!!!!!!! Well not really, it never snows before xmas, I just wanted to get excited.

Anyway, the Michaelmas term is a haven for colds, bugs and occasionally more serious conditions. I myself fell foul to a bout of nasty laryngitis.

Below I have set forth the most common complaints and how you can simply help to alleviate and prevent them.

Freshers’ flu (Common symptoms: hoarse, inflamed throat; loss of voice; cold, achy body.)
1. Stop drinking Alcohol. Plenty of water. Cessation of caffeinated drinks- they may provide immediate relief but 30 minutes later the throat is dehydrated.
2. Sit in bed RESTING!!! as soon as you start to feel ill. If you spend time resting when you’re not in supervisions or lectures you can avoid getting a virus or bug and still keep up with work.
3. Plenty of vitamin C and fruit/vegetables WILL keep your immune system fighting infection.
4. Wear scarves and other fashionable items of clothing which will also keep you warm, winter is NOT a time for bravado!
5. Recommended medication: Lemsip is good, especially their throat soothers. However do not take more than the stated dose, do not take it until you have the symptoms described and do not use it as a "pick me up". Often symptoms are caused repetitively by lifestyle choices, if you amend little things you’ll find you are ill less often and do not need to take medicine!
A continually painful, inflamed, hoarse throat
1. Use a vaporizer or humidifier in your bedroom.
2. Gargle with warm salt water (1/4 tsp. salt in 8-oz. glass of water) several times a day.
3. Increase your fluid intake.
4. Drink tea or even plain hot water with honey – very sound advice!
5. Mix honey and lemon juice together and drink. This is a VERY GOOD TIP: add hot water too...
6. Take a high-potency multivitamin and Echinacea to build up your immune system.
7. Reduce exposure to dust, cigarette smoke and other chemical irritants.
8. Avoid very spicy or hot foods.

That’s a pretty comprehensive list of how to avoid and help cure a sore throat without overdosing on GSK or conventional “medicines”. Please note, I take no responsibility for the reliability of this advice. What is more, it is best to check these steps if you have certain allergies. If in doubt, see the college nurse!